A study examined the reading values taught in reading textbooks over 200 years, including the top seven basals in use in U.S. public schools through 1995. A rare books collection at a university library was the major source of data. Value "labels" were determined for each selection. Results indicated that: (1) the average reader of 100 years ago taught some values in approximately 65% of the selections in the book, while the average number of selections with value content today is 35%; (2) the values of today are not only quantitatively different from the values of yesterday, they are also qualitatively different--from virtue, honesty, obedience, purity to good self-concept, appreciation of difference, and regard for nature. Findings suggest that one current direction of values teaching indicates that the use of children's literature and inquiry cycles will provide the context for "lived-values" in the classroom of the future, making textbooks a resource rather than "the curriculum." (Two figures of data are included.) (RS)